President Maia Sandu launches national initiative to shield children from digital risks
President Maia Sandu issued a compelling call to action on Safer Internet Day, observed globally on February 10 across 170 nations. Addressing the rising threats of anxiety and social pressure, Sandu announced a high-level national dialogue to protect children's mental health in an increasingly digital world.
"Our children are growing up in a vastly different landscape," President Sandu stated. She warned that authentic social bonds are being replaced by a disconnected, digital-only existence, emphasizing the urgent need for children to remain emotionally and socially healthy despite online challenges.
The President underscored that the internet must serve as a space for development rather than a source of danger. To achieve this, the Moldovan government is launching a comprehensive debate involving parents, educators, and psychologists to identify strategic solutions for risk reduction.
This initiative follows the President's late-January announcement designating online safety as a top priority for 2026. A new National Program for Mental Well-being in the Digital Era will be spearheaded by the Presidency, in collaboration with the Government, schools, and civil society.
Aligning with global efforts, Moldova has also launched a specialized national campaign titled "Let's Use AI Safely." This program focuses specifically on educating students and parents about the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence through school activities and information sessions throughout February and March.
Safer Internet Day was originally established in 2004 by the European Commission. This year, Moldova’s participation highlights a strategic shift toward institutionalizing digital safety as a pillar of national public health.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
